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Hebrews 12:1-3--Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

1. We must run the race with the same passion.  

Hebrews 12:1--Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses... 

Hebrews 11:32-38--And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets, 
³³who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, 
³⁴quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. 
³⁵Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. 
³⁶Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. 
³⁷They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated-- 
³⁸the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. 

2. We must run the race with the same purity.  

Hebrews 12:1--...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles... 

3. We must run the race with the same perseverance.  

Hebrews 12:1-3--...and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 
Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

4. We must run the race to win the same prize.  

Hebrews 12:2--Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith... 

Small Group Discussion Questions:

1. In what situations do you find it most difficult to persevere? Discuss a specific circumstance if applicable.  
2. Review the points and Bible verses from this lesson. What personal application can you make from this week's teaching? 
3. What are some things that work to divert your focus from the prize? What steps do you take to help you refocus? 
4. Take some time right now to pray for the needs of those in your small group. 

*Scripture is quoted from the New International Version unless otherwise noted.
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